Hazard Mitigation means to permanently reduce or alleviate the losses of life, injuries and property resulting from natural and human-made hazards through long-term strategies. These long-term strategies include planning, policy changes, programs, projects and other activities.
Mitigation is the responsibility of individuals, private businesses and industries, state, local and federal governments.
Hazard Mitigation Breaks the Cycle
When recurrent disasters take place, such as flooding along a river, repeated damage and reconstruction occurs. This recurrent reconstruction is often more expensive as the years go by. Hazard mitigation breaks this expensive cycle of recurrent damage and increasing reconstruction costs by taking a long-term view of rebuilding and recovery following natural disasters.
What are the Benefits?
- Reduces the loss of life, property, essential services, critical facilities and economic hardship.
- Reduces short-term and long-term recovery and reconstruction costs.
- Increases cooperation and communication within the community through the planning process.
- Increases potential for state and federal funding for recovery and reconstruction projects.
How Do I Find Out More About Hazard Mitigation?
The Hazard Mitigation Program in Massachusetts is jointly administered by DCR and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). More information on hazard mitigation can be found on the MEMA website.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Flood Hazard Management Program
251 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02114-2104